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Is testicular microlithiasis associated with decreased semen parameters? a systematic review
Hannah G Wilson1, Brian R Birch2,3, Rowland W Rees3
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton, Hampshire, SO17 1BJ, UK. hgw1g20@soton.ac.uk.
Basic and Clinical Andrology
|December 5, 2024
Summary
Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is linked to reduced semen quality, especially sperm concentration. Men with classic TM show lower sperm counts than those with limited TM, indicating a potential impact on male fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Urology
- Andrology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is characterized by testicular microcalcifications and is associated with male infertility.
- Semen analysis is crucial for evaluating male reproductive health in men with TM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically compare semen parameters in men with TM versus those without.
- To compare semen parameters between classic TM (≥5 microcalcifications) and limited TM (<5 microcalcifications).
- To analyze testicular volume and hormone levels as secondary outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines, registered on PROSPERO.
- Quality assessment of included studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
- Searched Embase, MEDLINE, World of Science, and Scopus databases for eligible studies.
Main Results:
- Ten studies involving 611 men with TM were included.
- Men with TM consistently showed lower sperm concentration compared to controls.
- Reduced sperm motility and morphology were also observed in men with TM.
- Classic TM was associated with significantly lower sperm concentration than limited TM.
Conclusions:
- Testicular microlithiasis is associated with diminished semen parameters, notably sperm concentration.
- Further research is needed to investigate clinical outcomes like pregnancy rates.
- Future studies should focus on larger sample sizes, controlled variables, and advanced sperm function tests.
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